Jay Jennings, NMTA VP and Director of Government Affairs, and Tarin Todd, Foss Harbor Marina, participated in the 2024 American Boating Congress in Washington D.C. in mid-May. The annual “congress” united industry experts, leaders, and elected officials to deliberate on the challenges and opportunities within recreational boating and sport-fishing. Focusing on concerns unique to the Pacific Northwest (PNW), Jay and Tarin actively engaged in discussions.
 
Accompanied by NMMA staff, they led a small yet determined west coast industry delegation to Capitol Hill. They presented crucial issues and solutions to seven congressional offices representing the West coast region. Members of Congress and political insiders shared valuable insights with the large audience, anticipating a lively 2024 election with significant implications for NMTA and various industry sectors.
 
Jay and Tarin know the annual gathering is an invaluable platform to establish connections within the boating community and policy circles. However, they noted a lack of Western state representation and therefore a bias toward Atlantic and Gulf state issues. Acknowledging the importance of proactive advocacy, we strongly encourage NMTA members to save dates for the 2025 American Boating Congress, May 12-15.
 
Contact Jay Jennings for further information at jay@nmta.net.